Assam CM Calls Upon EAM Jaishankar in Delhi to Discuss Act East Policy and BIMSTEC Initiatives
In a significant move to bolster Assam’s role in India’s strategic regional policies, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday in New Delhi. The meeting focused on the Act East Policy and BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) initiatives, exploring how Assam can enhance its contribution to India’s Neighborhood First approach.
Strengthening the Act East Policy
During the meeting, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the importance of Assam in strengthening Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy. This policy aims to promote economic cooperation, cultural ties, and strategic relationships with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Himanta Biswa Sarma outlined how Assam, with its strategic location, can act as a pivotal gateway to South East Asia, encouraging foreign investors to be a part of the Assam growth story.
“During this meeting, we deliberated upon a constructive role for Assam to strengthen Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy, encouraging foreign investors to be a part of the Assam Growth story, and firmly establishing our State as a preferred Gateway to South East Asia,” CM Himanta Biswa Sarma stated.
BIMSTEC: Enhancing Regional Cooperation
The discussions also covered BIMSTEC initiatives. BIMSTEC is a regional organization that connects countries around the Bay of Bengal, focusing on fostering economic growth and cooperation in various sectors such as transportation, energy, and counter-terrorism. The member states include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The organization is committed to regional collaboration, mutual assistance, and joint projects to address shared challenges and opportunities, thereby enhancing living standards and promoting inclusive growth across the region.
Positive Outcomes and Future Prospects
Expressing his satisfaction with the meeting, EAM Jaishankar took to his official X handle, stating, “Pleased to meet Chief Minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma in South Block today. Discussed Act East and BIMSTEC policies and how Assam can contribute to our Neighborhood First approach.”
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma also shared details of the meeting on his X handle. “Today, I had the privilege to call upon Union Minister S. Jaishankar,” Sarma wrote. “During this meeting, we deliberated upon a constructive role for Assam to strengthen Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy, encouraging foreign investors to be a part of the Assam Growth story, and firmly establishing our State as a preferred Gateway to South East Asia.”
Assam’s Strategic Importance
Assam’s strategic location makes it a critical player in India’s regional policies. By acting as a gateway to South East Asia, Assam can significantly contribute to India’s Act East Policy. This policy not only aims at enhancing trade and investment but also at fostering cultural and strategic relationships with neighboring countries. Assam’s development and connectivity initiatives are crucial for the success of this policy.
BIMSTEC and Regional Integration
BIMSTEC’s focus on regional integration aligns well with Assam’s development goals. The state’s participation in BIMSTEC initiatives can lead to improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and enhanced economic opportunities. The collaboration between Assam and BIMSTEC member countries can lead to joint projects that address common challenges, promote mutual assistance, and enhance living standards in the region.
A Call for Foreign Investment
One of the key aspects discussed during the meeting was the encouragement of foreign investment in Assam. By presenting Assam as a viable and attractive investment destination, the state can attract foreign investors, thereby boosting its economy. The state government’s proactive approach in promoting Assam as a gateway to South East Asia is expected to yield positive results in terms of economic growth and development.
Conclusion
The meeting between Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and EAM S. Jaishankar marks a significant step towards enhancing Assam’s role in India’s Act East Policy and BIMSTEC initiatives. By focusing on regional cooperation, strategic partnerships, and foreign investment, Assam is poised to play a crucial role in India’s regional and economic strategies. This collaboration not only benefits Assam but also contributes to the overall development and growth of the region.
The discussions underscore the importance of Assam in India’s regional policies and highlight the state’s potential to drive economic growth and regional integration. As Assam continues to strengthen its ties with neighboring countries and promote itself as a gateway to South East Asia, the state is set to achieve new heights in economic development and strategic importance.
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